Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
A charming porcelain ashtray featuring a hand-painted seated leprechaun figure, finished in the signature high-gloss 'Irish Porcelain' blue and green glazes. This piece represents the whimsical souvenir ware that helped define mid-century Irish ceramic exports.
Story
Post-war Ireland saw a boom in giftware as Wade expanded to Portadown in 1946. This little fellow was designed to capture the hearts of tourists, blending ancient folklore with modern utility.
Maker / Origin
Wade is legendary among collectors for their 'Whimsies,' but the Irish branch specialized in this distinct blue-green celadon-style glaze. Founded by George Wade, the company became a household name by making art accessible to the working class.
Condition & Value
There is visible paint loss on the leprechaun's red hat and some surface grime. The porcelain itself appears free of major chips, though the 'cold paint' wear is a standard aging characteristic that slightly tempers the value. Wade Irish Porcelain is widely collected but common.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.